Titu Cusi, born in 1526, emerged as a significant figure in the history of the Inca Empire, serving as the penultimate ruler of the Neo-Inca State. He was the son of Manco Inca Yupanqui and ascended to the throne in 1563 following the death of his half-brother, Sayri Túpac. His reign lasted until his own death in 1571, a demise attributed to pneumonia.
During his leadership, Titu Cusi not only governed but also chronicled the tumultuous events surrounding the Spanish conquest of the Inca Empire. His notable work, 'Relación de la conquista del Peru,' published in 1570, provides a rare and invaluable perspective from an Inca elite, shedding light on the cultural and political upheaval of the time.
As a ruler, Titu Cusi navigated the complexities of maintaining Inca traditions while facing the encroaching Spanish influence. His legacy is marked by his efforts to preserve the Inca identity in a rapidly changing world, making him a pivotal figure in the history of Peru.